Glimpse

Definition

Glimpse refers to a momentary or partial view or understanding of something.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɡlɪmps/
• Respelling: GLIMPS (with "GLIM" as in "glim" and "PS" as in "lips")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɡlɪmps/
• Respelling: GLIMPS (with "GLIM" as in "glim" and "PS" as in "lips")

In both dialects, "glimpse" places the primary stress on the entire syllable. The pronunciation is the same across both American and British English, focusing on the clear articulation of "GLIMPS."

Etymology

The term "glimpse" likely stems from Middle English glimen, meaning "to gleam, shine, glitter". The connection between "shine" or "gleam" and a quick look suggests the idea of something brief and fleeting, like the flash of a light.

Derivatives

• Glimpsed (verb, past tense)
• Glimpsing (verb, present participle)
• Glimpsable (adjective)
• Glimpselike (adjective)
• Glimpseable (adjective)

Synonyms

• Peek
• Glance
• Look-see

Antonyms

• Stare
• Examination
• Inspection

Usage

The term "glimpse" is commonly used to describe a quick or fleeting view of something, often implying that the observer did not see the full picture or only partially understood it. It is used in both literal and metaphorical contexts, such as catching a glimpse of someone in a crowd or getting a glimpse into someone's life.

Related Terms

• Sight
• Flash
• View
• Snapshot
• Sneak peek

Detailed Definition

Noun

• A Quick or Incomplete Look: A short, hurried, or partial view of something.
  • Example: She caught a glimpse of the actor as he left the building.

• A Momentary Perception: A brief or faint appearance of something that is usually not fully seen or understood.
  • Example: The book offers a fascinating glimpse into the author's childhood.

‍Verb

• To See Something Momentarily: To catch sight of something for a brief moment.
  • Example: I glimpsed a figure in the shadows but couldn't make out who it was.

• To Perceive Something Partially: To get a slight indication or understanding of something.
  • Example: He glimpsed the potential consequences of his actions.